Creative Endeavors Arts Center

In 2004, the Backroom Artists started in a classroom at our Alpha building for a small group of people who wanted to explore the fine arts. They began working on paintings and drawings and were able to discover their creative potential. The agency recognized the importance of having art opportunities available and decided to step outside our conventional way of providing services. Because the activities proved to be so successful, an Art Coordinator was hired in 2006 and staff began looking for space large enough to expand the program.

When the ‘Without Walls’ day program opened in Ballston Spa, The Strolling Village Artisans Co-op was located in the same building. Our individuals became members of their Co-op and began volunteering in the Art Shop and Gallery. After the Strolling Village Artisans moved out in 2007 we took over the space and Creative Endeavors Arts Center. It was designed to truly be an integral part of the local art community.

Through the efforts of the Art Coordinator and staff, we have been able to provide our individuals with a studio to hone their creativity. Creative Endeavors Arts Center also has a Gallery and Gift Shop giving opportunities for the artists to showcase and sell their work.

The benefits of our art programs have the capability to discover and nurture their artistic talents to help guide and extract their true potential, increase productivity, augment overall ability, advance self-confidence, gain another avenue of expression and improve communication skills. The artwork presents an outlet for emitting emotions that are otherwise difficult to verbalize. Most importantly, the arts have the ability to equalize the playing field so that people with significant disabilities can participate at varying degrees. It becomes quite apparent when artists participate in craft fairs or exhibits. They delight in having a chance to talk about their process and are ecstatic when they sell a piece of artwork. We are able to increase awareness of our individuals’ talents which promotes positive perceptions.

Mary Baker, whose sister Sarah pictured to the left, is a Business and Marketing Administrator at Microsoft. She led her 85-person team in their annual Give Campaign by encouraging them to support Creative Endeavors. Watch the wonderful, inspiring video she created by clicking here.